Rahleh Mahtabpour

Raheleh Mahtabpour graduated from the Azad University of Tehran In 2002 with a Diploma in Oral Hygiene. She has over 14 years of professional experience and has worked in both public (government hospital) and private dental practices in the UAE. She holds a basic life support (CPR) certificate and is a registered member of the Iranian Dental Association.

Raheleh is very passionate about dental hygiene education and spreading oral health and hygiene awareness in many schools in Dubai.

In 2015, Rahleh officially qualified in Prague as a Certified iTOP Instructor. "I loved my iTOP training and I’m always excited to share what I’ve learned to all new students."

"Learning Individually Trained Oral Prophylaxis (iTOP) offers a lot of benefits for dental professionals. Students are trained, one-on-one, with the correct technique of brushing, flossing and using interdental flosses. We all use what we learn to make sure we take better care of our patients."

Her interest includes periodontal (gum) and bad breath treatment, oral hygiene care in adults and children, and home and in-office teeth whitening.

She speaks English, Farsi and basic Arabic. In her spare time, she enjoys cycling and playing her guitar.

Up Close & Personal with Hygienist Rahleh

"If a hygienist fails to give the perfect treatment, this would affect the overall health of the patient." –Hygienist Rahleh

Rahleh Mahtabpour has been working as a dental hygienist since 2002. She’s also one of the select certified iTOP Instructors in the UAE who travel to Prague twice every year to train other dental professionals on oral prophylaxis.

What inspired her to be a hygienist and how’s her career rewarding? Find out today.

Why did you choose to be a hygienist?

I love helping people and seeing them smile. My mother was in the healthcare field and I grew up seeing her working with her patients and helping them regain their health. I saw how rewarding this was. I am also very detail-oriented and even an outright perfectionist. I think these are necessary characteristics for a hygienist. If a hygienist fails to give the perfect treatment, then this would affect the overall health of the patient.

What do you like most about your job?

I love the daily interaction with my patients. I have learned so much from my patients. At the same time, I do my best in teaching them about oral hygiene and how it can impact their health. I enjoy seeing them smile.

Oral hygiene does not only impact one’s teeth, it impacts a person’s overall physical and emotional health.

Why is educating your patients about oral hygiene important?

Oral hygiene does not only impact one’s teeth, it impacts a person’s overall physical and emotional health. By imparting good oral hygiene habits on to my patients, I believe I help them live healthier and happier lives.

What are the most common mistakes patients do when it comes to brushing or flossing?

Two things – they brush too hard and do not use correct brushing technique. Brushing too hard damages the gums and results in gum recession. Failing to use correct brushing technique leaves plaque around the teeth, which can lead to cavities and even gum infection.

What advice can you give to patients who are wearing braces?

Patients wearing braces need to visit their dental hygienist every three months on a regular basis. They need to also visit their dentist every six months. Also, they should use special orthodontic brush and interdental brush to ensure proper oral hygiene.

What are your hobbies? What do you like to do outside of work?

I enjoy swimming, biking and Pilates. I am also taking guitar lessons. I love to travel to experience different cultures and cuisines. I try to spend as much time as possible with my family and especially my daughter.

What Patients Say

"Rahleh is very detail-oriented and produced great results in her work." –Vikrant

"I have a fear of going for dental checkups/cleaning. Raheleh was great informing me about the treatment. Her confidence and relaxed manners put me at ease. I highly recommend her." –Nader Seyed

"It's never fun going to the dentist EXCEPT if your going to see Dr Rahleh. She greets you with a warm smile that projects care and comfort. She has "light hands" which I barely feel while she is working, although I'm very sensitive. She gives genuine recommendations and I always leave her office with a happy clean mouth and a bright smile." –Muna H., Palestine

"Rahleh is an excellent hygienist, she is thorough, professional all and as well as been gentle. She is simply the best." –Gloria Giles, UK